PledgeStar FAQs
PledgeStar is our new online pledge system that will allow our children to request and collect pledges from friends and family who would like to pay online with a credit card, as well as an option to pay by check. Each family can create a web page to share with potential donors via the site, email, or social media. Donors simply click the link and make a pledge in a few easy steps. Parents and kids can monitor progress toward their fundraising goals and the system sends receipts and collect the per lap pledges from donors. PledgeStar is private and secure, so no one can get to your child’s page unless they have your unique URL.
Should I use PledgeStar, the paper Pledge Form, or both to collect pledges?
You can use one, the other, or both. Donors can pay with a credit card or check from the PledgeStar website. So we’d suggest using PledgeStar to contact as many friends and family as possible online. Then use the Pledge Form for anyone who isn’t online, for whom you don’t have an email address, or who replies that they’d like to give you cash.
How does the donor pay with a check through the system?
They can enter their information on your personal donation page, click on “pay by check,” then they can give you the check to bring to school, or they can mail it directly to the school. Checks should be made to “Jose Ortega PTA” and the memo should include the number given by the site. Once the school receives the check, it will be entered into the system, and they will receive an emailed receipt.
Can I include people living outside the U.S.?
Yes! Credit cards from most countries are accepted. Exceptions include countries that the U.S. does not do business with.
Do donors need to log in?
No. Donors simply click the link that you share with them to be guided through a few simple screens to make a payment.
How do I get a direct link to my page?
Once you have added a Family & Friend email (it can be your own), then a section will appear titled “Share on Social Media”. That section has your direct link.
How do I access the Online Pledge System once I've signed up?
Go to http://www.pledgestar.com/joseortega and enter your email address and passcode (from your email).
Why can't I change my passcode?
It is unique and linked to your child's information and is used for administrative tracking.
What if I forget my passcode?
Check your email, or click on the "Not registered or forgot passcode" button and enter your name and email and it will be emailed to you.
How do I make a donation on my child’s page?
You can scroll to the bottom of the page once you login and click on the share link that will take you to the donation/payment section. You can also email yourself and then click on the link from your email.
Can multiple people create a page for the same child(ren)?
Yes.
How does it work for families with more than one child?
You can enter all children under one page. Flat donations will be split evenly among your children. Per lap pledges will result in one donation with the amounts allotted appropriately based on completed laps per child. Or you can register as different people (using different email addresses) and create a separate page for each child.
My request shows as Bounced. What should I do?
Please click on the Friend and Family name, and check the email address. If you see you made a mistake or know they have a new email address, you can change the email address and click Resend.
I accidentally put the wrong email address for a friend and family member. How do I fix it?
See explanation in the above question.
Why does my goal amount keep increasing?
PledgeStar will automatically increase your goal if you get within $50 of it. You can turn that off in Goal Settings when managing your page.
How will people that pledged by lap know how many laps I completed?
After the Walk-a-thon has been completed, the Walk-a-thon administrator will enter the laps into the system. Then PledgeStar will email those donors to let them know how many laps were done and how much they owe.
I am having issues with the PledgeStar Site. What should I do?
Email support@pledgestar.com or call (888) 598-7510
Still have questions?